Diseases

Tonsils

Tonsils anatomy and physiology

Tonsils are a pair of glands (masses of tissues) situated at either side of the throat. In children, tonsils play an important role of blocking the infection at the level of the throat and not letting the infection affect the more important organs such as throat or lungs. Tonsils act as filters, trapping germs that could otherwise enter your airways and cause infection. Tonsils also produce antibodies to fight infections.

Tonsils are the part of lymphatic system along with adenoids. The lymphatic system clears away infection and keeps body fluids in balance.

As the person grows up the role of tonsils reduces as immunity builds up. Inflammation of tonsils is a sign of the first line of defense against infection by the body. Overwhelmed by bacteria or viruses, they swell and become inflamed, a condition known as tonsillitis.